William Faulkner Novel The Sound And The Fury
Introduction
William Faulkner's novel "The Sound and the Fury" is considered to be one of the greatest works of modernist literature. It was published in 1929 and is known for its complex narrative structure and its portrayal of the decline of the Compson family, a wealthy and influential family from the American South. The novel is divided into four sections, each of which focuses on a different member of the family and is narrated from their perspective.
The Compson Family
The Compson family is a prominent family from Jefferson, Mississippi. The family is headed by Jason and Caroline Compson, and their children are Quentin, Caddy, Jason, and Benjy. The family is wealthy and influential, but their fortunes begin to decline after the death of Mr. Compson.
The Structure of the Novel
The novel is divided into four sections, each of which is narrated from the perspective of a different member of the family. The first section is narrated by Benjy, a mentally disabled member of the family who experiences time in a non-linear way. The second section is narrated by Quentin, who is tortured by his own thoughts and memories. The third section is narrated by Jason, who is bitter and resentful towards his family. The final section is narrated by an omniscient narrator and focuses on Dilsey, the Compson family's African-American servant.
Themes
The Sound and the Fury is a complex novel that explores a variety of themes, including time, memory, family, and race. The novel is also known for its exploration of the decline of the American South, as the Compson family is a symbol of the decline of the aristocratic South.
Reception
The Sound and the Fury was initially met with mixed reviews, but it has since become a critical and popular success. The novel has been praised for its innovative narrative structure and its exploration of complex themes. It has also been adapted into various forms, including a stage play and a film.
Conclusion
William Faulkner's novel The Sound and the Fury is a masterpiece of modernist literature. Its complex narrative structure and its exploration of a variety of themes make it a challenging but rewarding read. The novel is an important contribution to the literary canon and continues to be studied and celebrated today.